Dish

Pastel de Chaves

The pastry crust for Pastel de Chaves is made with puff pastry that is rolled out and cut into circles. The filling is made with ground meat, onions, and a variety of spices such as paprika and cumin. The pastries are then baked until golden brown. Pastel de Chaves is typically served hot and can be enjoyed with a dipping sauce or chutney.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Portuguese cuisine

Pastry› Savory Pastry

Origins and history

Pastel de Chaves has its roots in Portuguese cuisine and has been a popular snack for centuries. It is often served during festivals and celebrations in Portugal.

Dietary considerations

Pastel de Chaves is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the meat filling. It is also not gluten-free due to the use of wheat flour in the puff pastry.

Variations

There are many variations of Pastel de Chaves, including those with different fillings such as cheese or vegetables. Some recipes also call for the addition of olives or capers to the filling.

Presentation and garnishing

Pastel de Chaves can be presented on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or sliced vegetables. It can also be served individually on small plates or in a basket. It is important to ensure that the pastries are cooked through and golden brown before serving.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the puff pastry is flaky and tender, it is important to handle the dough as little as possible. The filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. When baking the pastries, be sure to brush the top with an egg wash to give it a shiny, golden brown finish.

Side-dishes

Pastel de Chaves can be served with a variety of side dishes, including salads, soups, or roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.

Drink pairings

Pastel de Chaves pairs well with a variety of drinks, including red wine, beer, or a fruit juice. It can also be enjoyed with a non-alcoholic beverage such as sparkling water or lemonade.